New Survey Finds 83% of Baby Boomers Use Cannabis

A new survey regarding marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD) use by baby boomers and older revealed that 83% of the more than 11,000 respondents are using some form of cannabis, either for medical or recreational purposes, or both. Almost 50% partake both for recreational and medical reasons, 66% partake daily, and 5% use rarely. Only 12% have never used marijuana. The numbers reveal that marijuana and/or CBD use is an important component of many seniors’ lives.

“The results frankly shocked me, and I believe they will generate some much-needed dialogue about aging, senior living, and what it means to have the freedom to be our best selves as we age,” said Lisa Cini, a senior living expert. “We can’t avoid factoring in that recreational drugs were part of how the boomer generation grew up, and when it comes to marijuana, quite a few have either never stopped partaking or have resumed doing so when no longer having to maintain a career or raise children.”

The survey, conducted between July and August of 2018, spread like wildfire among boomers, with more than 67% completing the survey, translating into more than 11,000 completed responses.

“Marijuana use is a reality that we can’t just ignore,” added Cini. “It’s time to get over our fear of discussing it because it’s part of the daily lives of so many.”

80% of survey respondents were baby boomers, 17% were borderline boomers aged 50-53, and 3% were over 72 years of age. Unexpectedly, 37% of the respondents live in a state where marijuana is not legal for any purpose, which Cini believes adds validity to the survey because it negates the issue of seniors enjoying marijuana only because it’s legal in their state. It also means that these seniors are thwarting the law and making the effort to get marijuana, whether for medical or recreational uses.